Running Shoes HQ
ASICS Magic Speed 5
Marathon race

Magic Speed 5

Carbon-plated tempo trainer for fast workouts and race day. Combines FF BLAST PLUS cushioning with a carbon fiber plate for responsive propulsion.

$180MSRP
Comparable specifications
Use these measurements to compare shoes on equal terms.
Terrain
road
Primary use
Marathon race
Races
Half to marathon
Also good for
Half marathon race, Tempo / threshold, 10K race
Cushion
high
Firmness
balanced
Stability
neutral
Weight
196g
Drop
7mm
Stack
37/30mm
Plate
carbon
Midsole
FF LEAP and FF BLAST PLUS
Outsole
ASICSGRIP
Upper
engineered mesh with at least 75% recycled content
Widths
standard
Release
2025
Tempo workoutsSpeed intervalsShort distanceHalf marathonRoadLightweightMarathonRace dayCarbon plate
Our read

A versatile carbon-plated racer aimed at neutral runners seeking a snappy trainer-racer that can double for tempo work; ASICS reduced weight and stack versus the Magic Speed 4, sharpening its short-to-marathon speed intent, though independent ride and durability data are not yet available.

Ride

A 37/30 mm FF BLAST PLUS platform with a carbon plate delivers a balanced, propulsive ride that works for both fast workouts and racing. Lighter than most daily trainers at 196 g, it favors uptempo efforts over easy miles.

Fit

Standard width only with a fairly snug, performance-oriented upper typical of ASICS tempo shoes.

Best for

Runners wanting one carbon-plated shoe for tempo sessions and shorter races without paying super-shoe prices.

Avoid if

You need a plush recovery-day shoe or want maximum energy return of a top-tier marathon racer.

Sources
What informed our read. We link out rather than reproduce others’ reviews.